Characterise Rock Composition and Texture with Petrographic Analysis
Expert analysis of rocks, ores, aggregates, and concrete for construction, mining, and research
What is Petrographic Analysis
Petrographic analysis is a specialised branch of geology that focuses on the detailed characterisation of rocks and minerals. While macroscopic observations provide preliminary classifications, microscopic analysis offers deeper insights into mineral composition, texture, and structural properties.
At Test a Mineral Pty Ltd, we help you find the best petrographic analysis by examining samples at the microscopic level using high-quality thin sections and polished blocks.. A thin section is a 0.03 mm slice of material mounted on a glass slide and polished to allow for precise light transmission and reflection under a petrographic microscope.
Our Advanced Capabilities
We work with a wide range of sample types, including:
Drill core and RC chips | Grab samples and single crystals | Coarse and fine aggregates | Concrete cores, renders, and mortars
Test a Mineral Pty Ltd routinely collaborates with junior exploration companies, major mining firms, and government bodies, supporting projects from greenfield exploration to metallurgical processing. With the growing demand for critical and battery metals, we have extensive expertise in analysing lithium-bearing minerals (e.g., lepidolite and spodumene) and characterising graphite flake size and quality.
Applications of Petrographic Analysis
Our petrographic analysis supports key industry applications, including
Geological Petrography & Mineral Exploration
Identification of mineral compositions and ore-forming processes
Differentiation of rock types beyond macroscopic observations
Recognition of mineral inclusions and textural variations
Reclassification of geological materials for better resource assessment
Ore Characterization & Processing
Evaluation of mineral liberation and grain size comminution
Understanding ore processing behaviour for optimised extraction
Identification of mineral vectors to guide exploration
Concrete & Aggregate Petrography
Microscopic defects in concrete and aggregates can lead to large-scale structural issues. Our petrographic analysis helps detect
Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR) and Alkali-Carbonate Reaction (ACR)
Delayed Ettringite Formation (DEF) and cement hydration issues
Cracking, microcracking, and chemical attack damage
Freeze-thaw deterioration, scaling, and spalling
We assist in finding solutions for screening coarse and fine aggregates to assess deleterious mineral content and ensure their suitability for concrete applications.
Standardised & Holistic Testing Approaches
At Test a Mineral Pty Ltd, tailored petrographic investigation solutions are provided to meet specific project needs by integrating mineralogical, chemical, and structural analysis techniques. Methodologies include
X-ray diffraction (XRD) for mineral identification
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for microstructural examination
Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) for elemental mapping
Adherence to national and international testing standards is maintained, including
Australian Standards (NATA Accredited)
AS 1141.26 – Secondary Minerals Content in Igneous Rocks
AS 1141.65 – Alkali Aggregate Reactivity: Qualitative Petrological Screening for Potential ASR
International Standards
ASTM C856 – Standard Practice for Petrographic Examination of Hardened Concrete
ASTM C295 – Standard Guide for Petrographic Examination of Aggregates for Concrete
ASTM C1260 – Standard Test Method for Potential Alkali Reactivity of Aggregates (Mortar Bar Method)
Why Choose Test a Mineral Pty Ltd for Petrographic Analysis
Known for the consistent delivery of the best petrographic analysis for diverse industries.
Tailored solutions to maximize data recovery and geological insights
Compliance with globally recognized testing standards
Test a Mineral Pty Ltd is committed to delivering reliable, high-quality petrographic analysis for projects worldwide. Whether you need on-site sample assessments or remote laboratory testing, we are here to support your geological and material analysis needs.
Request a quote or consultation
For inquiries, sample submission guidelines, or to request a quote, please contact us via: